An Arizona tradition 62 years in the making: Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo! This four-day extravaganza is taking place February 27 – March 1, 2026, in Apache Junction, Arizona. Within those four days, there is a plethora of activity throughout the town, but the greatest thing is the comradery that takes place between all of the events and the community. We’ve got the full breakdown of the event, with all the information you’ll need to plan your trip!
February 27 – March 1, 2026
1590 E Lost Dutchman Blvd
Apache Junction, AZ
Lost Dutchman Days Annual Bratwurst & Beer Party
Kick off the 2026 Lost Dutchman Days with the Annual Bratwurst & Beer Party! On Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 12:00-8:00 PM, the Apache Junction Elks Lodge #2349 will be serving up good times, great food, and free entertainment. It’s a great event supporting a great cause, with all proceeds benefiting local youth charities. Visit their website for a full rundown of events.
“On behalf of the many volunteers involved and making up the Lost Dutchman Days Committee, I would like to invite all of you to visit us this weekend for fun and entertainment.”
Chairman Sherry Coker.
Rodeo Dance
This is THE place to be on a Friday night on rodeo weekend! Kick the dust up at the Elks Lodge 2349 (at the corner of Lost Dutchman (Brown Road) and Highway 88) on Friday, February 27, 2026. Dance the night away from 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM, enjoy great music with friends, and celebrate the start of an action-packed weekend. Admission is just $10.00!
(This is a non-smoking event. Must be 21 or older to attend.)
The Main Event Center
For only $2.00 (and free parking!), immerse yourself in the world of the 2026 Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo, February 27 – March 1, 2026. The main gates open at 9:00 A.M. Friday through Sunday, with the rodeo ending around 4 pm and the carnival closing when things slow down.
Located at 1590 E Lost Dutchman Blvd & Tomahawk Road at Rodeo Park in Apache Junction, this is where all the activities will be held, including a FREE Entertainment Stage, Carnival rides, Vendor Booths, Rodeo, and the Crowning of the Miss Lost Dutchman Days Pageant Queen. A donation is made by the Lost Dutchman Days Committee to the Apache Junction Little League as well!
(Additional charges apply for the games, rides in the carnival area, purchases from the vendors, & rodeo admission.)
Rodeo Details
The Annual Lost Dutchman Days GCPRA Sanctioned Rodeo begins at 1:30 P.M. each day in the Rodeo Park in Apache Junction. Rodeo events include Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc
Bareback, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, and Breakaway Roping. On top of the exciting rodeo action, there will be entertainment by acclaimed Trick Rider Bella Da Costa! With each performance, Bella embarks on a thrilling adventure, showcasing her remarkable speed and agility. Her daring maneuvers and flawless execution leave spectators breathless.
Carnival
The rodeo isn’t the only thrilling event! Lost Dutchman Days is also known for its incredible carnival. Enjoy 30+ rides and carnival events at the Event Center. Advance Wristbands are available at the AJ Chamber for $35 and are $45 the weekend at the event. Carnival times are as follows:
- Friday: 3 pm – 10 pm
- Saturday: 10 am- 11 pm
- Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Lost Dutchman Days Parade
Experience a taste of Apache Junction culture with the Lost Dutchman Days Parade on Saturday, February 28th, 2026. This free event begins at 9:00 A.M. in downtown Apache Junction, and runs on Apache Trail, between Idaho and Ironwood – begins at Phelps, just west of Idaho, and goes west to Ironwood and returns. This parade allows viewers to see and line up on either side of the route.
Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo Tickets
There are a set number of Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo tickets sold per day, so make sure to get there early! You will not be able to transfer days so please ensure you are purchasing tickets for the correct day. This is a rain-or-shine event, so the festivities will run no matter what the weather is. All sales are final, and there will not be any online tickets available for purchase.
- Adult Tickets: $20.00
- Youth Tickets: $15.00 (10 and under)
- Parking is FREE, but there is a $2 General Admission fee at the front gate that is CASH ONLY.
Want to get your hands on tickets before the main event? Head over to the Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce, located at 567 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85220, and get $2.00 off your ticket price. It’s cash only, so make sure to come prepared.
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